If ever there was a summer or a time to put the caveat emptor on trade rumors, this is it. Especially concerning the Chicago Blackhawks.
It's not that there aren't a lot of conversations going on—there are. But speaking for myself only, I am literally hearing a lot of conflicting information—or rumors that seem to make sense, yet can't be verified by independent sources.
Here is what I am hearing from a trusted source (some of the information is lacking specifics because I have been asked to withhold for now):
Marcus Kruger to Las Vegas "gaining steam."
(As previously reported by Scott Powers, The Athletic) source tells me Hawks are in on free agent pursuit of Erie Otter defenseman Darren Raddysh.
Hawks interest in Czech D Jan Rutta may "hinge on" potential of Trevor van Riemsdyk going to Las Vegas (or elsewhere). There was a report (that now appears likely erroneous) this morning out of Europe that Rutta had extended his contract with his Czech league team.
"Lots of (trade) conversations going on. The only (pure) untouchables are 2, 19, 88 . . ."
Hawks are discussing Jonathan Drouin with Tampa Bay.
Without divulging specifics, it seems the Hawks are trying to move higher AAV veteran contracts in order to get younger, cost-controlled NHL players in return. This may call for Chicago to include "sweeteners" (higher ranked prospects/young players) in these deals.
More as I hear it.
JJ
Chicago Blackhawks Blogger • 
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